Dr. Patricia Liaw receives Distinguished Lecturer and Scientific Excellence award from CIHR for contributions to cardiovascular science

Dr. Patricia Liaw has received the 2024 Distinguished Lecturer and Scientific Excellence Award in Blood and Blood Vessel Sciences from the CIHR Institute of Circulatory and Respiratory Health and the Canadian Society of Atherosclerosis, Thrombosis and Vascular Biology (CSATVB). This award recognizes outstanding researchers who have contributed significantly to the advancement of blood and/or blood vessel sciences within any one of the 4 CIHR research themes areas: biomedical; clinical; health systems and services; and, social, cultural, environmental and population health.

“For an individual’s outstanding contribution to the advancement of blood and/or blood vessel sciences both in Canada and internationally”

Dr. Liaw’s CIHR-funded research program investigates the impact of sepsis on the cardiovascular system. Sepsis is caused by excessive host immune response to infection that can lead to tissue damage, organ failure, and death. Research from the Liaw Lab has shown that activation of neutrophils and other circulating immune cells can cause abnormal blood clots to form in sepsis patients, though a mechanism called immunothrombosis. While many treatments exist for the prevention and resolution of abnormal blood clots in patients with heart attacks and stroke, they are not always effective at treating blood clots in sepsis patients. This may be due to the unusual and excessive activation of the immune system. Understanding the mechanism of clot formation in sepsis has led Dr. Liaw to investigate novel treatments of thrombosis in this group of critically ill patients.

Dr. Liaw is a Professor in the Department of Medicine and holds the Jack Hirsh-Clive Kearon Chair in Thrombosis. She will deliver her lecture at the Canadian Lipid and Vascular Summit to be held in Blue Mountain, Canada from September 26-29, 2024.

Congratulations Dr. Liaw on this recognition of all your important contributions!